These photos show the dramatic change in a boxer mix named Red who was severely malnourished when he arrived at Plano Animal Services in October and is now healthy enough for adoption after months of rehabilitation. (Photo courtesy city of Plano)

A severely malnourished dog that underwent months of rehabilitation with the help of Plano Animal Services is looking for a new home.

The boxer mix named Red is healthy enough to be adopted. But Plano officials caution he will still need extra care as he recuperates. A special adoption process has been set up to ensure Red’s owners can provide for him.

Last year, an animal control officer found Red while checking on a cruelty complaint. The owner was cited for inhumane treatment, which carries a fine of up to $500. The case is pending. Red was turned over to Plano Animal Services on Oct. 7.

Because Red was malnourished, his bones did not grow properly. His medical costs, including two surgeries, totaled more than $3,000 and were covered through donations.

Finding a dog that has suffered such severe neglect is a rarity for Plano Animal Services, Cantrell said. That's why employees there are taking extra precautions to ensure Red goes to a good home.

"Staff just didn't want to give up on him," Cantrell said. "We wanted to do everything we could to show him that not all people are going to treat him that way."